Run, Walk, Swim: Callan Park’s Tidal Baths Will Officially Open In 2026

Sydney’s Inner West is getting a major park upgrade—and that long-awaited harbour swim spot is still firmly on track.

A new 10-year master plan for Callan Park has been finalised, mapping out the future of the 61-hectare waterfront green space with more open areas, better access and the addition of tidal baths set to open in summer 2026–27.

For the millions of people who already use the Bay Run each year, it’s shaping up to be a pretty significant glow-up.

Here’s what’s changing.

Know what you want? Skip to:

• What’s Included In The Callan Park Master Plan
• When The Callan Park Tidal Baths Will Open
• New Open Space And Park Upgrades In The Inner West
• What It Means For The Bay Run And Local Community

What’s Included In The Callan Park Master Plan

Image Credit Mike Higginbottom

The Callan Park Plan of Management 2026–2036 sets out a long-term vision for the site, focusing on accessibility, open space and community use.

The plan aims to unlock parts of the park that are currently underused, improving how visitors move through and experience the space.

Key priorities include:

• Expanding public open space
• Improving accessibility across the park
• Restoring heritage areas
• Introducing new opportunities for events, community use and small-scale hospitality

The plan has been shaped by extensive consultation, with input from thousands of locals, community groups and stakeholders.

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When The Callan Park Tidal Baths Will Open

Image Credit: Inner West Council

The highly anticipated Callan Park tidal baths are still moving ahead, with construction set to begin in June 2026.

The swim spot is expected to open in summer 2026–27, adding a purpose-built harbour swimming area along the Bay Run.

The design includes:

• Accessible entry points with ramps and pathways
• A fixed jetty and floating pontoon
• Shark net protection within the swim zone

The baths will form part of a broader push to improve access to the Parramatta River and create more safe, everyday swimming spots across Sydney.

New Open Space And Park Upgrades In The Inner West

Image Credit: Inner West Council

Beyond the waterfront, the plan introduces a series of upgrades across the park.

These include:

• The removal of nine derelict buildings, returning around 1.6 hectares to open green space
• A new community sports facility within a repurposed heritage building
• Potential for a future café and expanded amenities
• Environmental improvements focused on biodiversity and habitat protection

The goal is to balance heritage preservation with more usable, flexible spaces for recreation and community activity.

What It Means For The Bay Run And Local Community

Callan Park already attracts more than 2.4 million visitors annually, with the Bay Run alone used by around 5,000 people every day.

With population growth expected to surge across the Inner West, the upgrades are designed to ensure the park can keep pace—offering more space, better facilities and improved access to the waterfront.

Over the next decade, the site is set to evolve into a more connected, accessible and active public space—while keeping its status as one of Sydney’s most loved green escapes.

Main Image Credit: Inner West Council